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Top Public Universities in Germany - Zero Tuition Fee (2025)

Jan 30, 2025, 05:10 PM
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Have you ever considered studying at some of the world's top-ranked public universities with minimal to no tuition fees, along with scholarship opportunities? If so, Germany might be the most fitting destination for you.

Well-known for their prestige, some of the leading universities in Germany have proven to provide the best education and excellence in research across various scientific disciplines. Germany has established itself as a top choice for international students seeking world-class education at an affordable cost.

Be it considering a bachelor's or a master's program, Germany offers a wide range of opportunities to international students. In this blog, we will look into what these top-tier universities have to offer and what you need to know before applying. 

 

   Table of Contents

 


1. Technical University of Munich


Ranked #28 in the world QS Ranking, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is a world-class institution renowned for its focus on engineering, technology, and natural sciences. With a focus on research and innovation, TUM attracts high-end education-seeking applicants globally.

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
A recognized secondary school diploma (e.g., Abitur or equivalent).
b
Proof of German proficiency for German-taught programs. 
c
Students without the direct qualification may apply via Studienkellog. 
2

Master's Programs:

a
A relevant bachelor's degree, subject-specific requirements, and proof of language proficiency (German or English).   
b
GRE might be required for specific engineering programs.
3

Language Proficiency: 

a
For German-taught programs: TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe Zertifikat.
b
For English-taught programs:  IELTS (min 6.5), TOEFL (min. 88), or equivalent tests. 
4

Tuition Fee For International Students:

a
Bachelor's:   €2,000 -  €3,000 per semester. 
b
Master's:  €4,000 - €6,000 per semester.
 

 

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2. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)


As one of Germany's oldest and most esteemed universities, LMU offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Ranked #59 in the world, LMU is particularly well-known for its research capabilities and diverse academic offerings.

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
A recognized secondary school diploma equivalent to German Abitur.
b
APS certificates for students from China, India, and Vietnam.
2

Master's Programs:

a
A relevant bachelor's degree and proof of subject-specific qualifications. 
3

Language Proficiency: 

a
For German-taught programs: TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe Zertifikat.
b
For English-taught programs:  IELTS (min 6.5), TOEFL (min. 88), or Duolingo (min. 100). 
4

Tuition Fees: 

a
LMU is tuition-free for both bachelor's and master's programs. However, a small semester fee (around €100 - €150) is required. 
 



3. Universität Heidelberg


Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University, ranked #84 in the world,  is Germany's oldest university, known for its research-based approach and eminence in the humanities, natural sciences, and medicine. 

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
High school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur. For non-EU students, equivalence can be determined via Uni-Assist. 
b
If the diploma does not meet the requirements, a preparatory course (Studienkellog) may be required. 
2

Master's Programs: 

a
Bachelor's degree with a good GPA.  
b
Specific prerequisite coursework may apply depending on the program. 
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
While the bachelor's and master's studies are free for EU students, non-EU students pay €1,500 per semester. 
4

Application Process:

a
Non-EU students apply through Uni-Assist for a bachelor's program.  
b
Master's applications can be submitted directly to the university or via Uni-Assist, depending on the program. 
5

Language proficiency:

a
German-taught programs: TestDAF (level 4 or higher) or DSH-2. 
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL (90+) or IELTS (6.5+).
 

 

4. Freie Universität Berlin


Established in 1948, Freie Universität Berlin ranks #97 in the QS Rankings 2025 and stands out for its interdisciplinary research and a strong emphasis on international collaboration. 

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
High school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
b
If credentials are insufficient, students may need to take the Studienkellog. 
2

Master's Programs: 

a
Bachelor's degree with a good GPA.  
b
Specific prerequisite coursework may vary by program. 
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
No tuition fees for bachelor's and master's programs. A semester fee of €300-400 applies, which covers administrative costs and public transportation.  
4

Application Process:

a
Applications for non-EU students are handled via Uni-Assist or can be directly for master's, depending on the faculty. 
5

Language proficiency:

a
German-taught programs: TestDAF (level 4 or higher) or DSH-2. 
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL (90+) or IELTS (6.5+).

 


5. RWTH Aachen University


Ranked #99, RWTH Aachen University is one of Germany's largest technical universities and is globally renowned for its engineering and technology programs. 

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
High school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
b
Non-EU applicants may need additional qualifications through Studienkellog. 
2

Master's Programs: 

a
Bachelor's degree with a good GPA.  
b
GRE may be required for some engineering or technical programs.   
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
No tuition fees for bachelor's and master's programs. A semester fee of €300 applies for administrative and transport passes.   
4

Application Process:

a
Non-EU students must apply via Studienkellog.
5

Language proficiency:

a
German-taught programs: TestDAF level 4 or DSH-2. 
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL (90+) or IELTS (6.5+).

 

 



6. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)


Ranking #102 on QS, KIT is one of Germany's leading universities in science, technology, and engineering.

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
Secondary school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
b
Validation of certificates via uni-assist for international applicants.
2

Master's Programs: 

a
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field from a recognized university.   
b
GRE may be required for some engineering or technical programs.   
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
€1,500 per semester for international students. No fees for preparatory German language courses.  
4

Entrance Exam:

a
For applicants requiring preparatory German language courses, a B-1/B2-level exam is mandatory for enrollment in the Studienkellog course. 
5

Language proficiency:

a
German-taught programs: Proof of B1 level German proficiency or DSH-2.
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL (90+) or IELTS (6.5+, no band below 5.5).
 

 

7. Humboldt Universität


Humboldt Universität, ranked #126, is celebrated for its academic prominence in interdisciplinary research and cultural significance in arts, humanities, and sciences. 

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
University entrance qualification (HZB) equivalent to the German Abitur. 
b
Validation of certificates via uni-assist for international applicants.  
2

Master's Programs: 

a
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field from a recognized university.   
b
Some programs may ask for professional experience or other specific prerequisites.  
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
No tuition fees are charged.  
4

Language proficiency:

a
All undergrad programs are in German: C1 German proficiency is required.
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL (99+) or IELTS (6.5+).


 

8. Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)


TU Berlin is a leading technical university offering a wide range of engineering and technology courses. Ranked #147, it Is highly regarded for its focus on ingenuity and interdisciplinary studies. 

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
Secondary school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
b
Eligibility assessment via Uni-Assist. 
2

Master's Programs: 

a
A relevant bachelor's degree.   
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
No tuition fees for most programs (exceptions: continuing education programs such as executive master's programs, professional development courses, or specialized training programs).
4

Language proficiency:

a
German-taught programs: German proficiency B2 level or higher.
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL 88 or IELTS 6.5.
 
 

9. Universität Hamburg


Known for its strengths in social sciences, law, and environmental studies, Universität Hamburg, ranking #191 in the QS Rankings, offers a rich academic and research environment.

 

Application Requirements:

1

Bachelor's Programs:

a
Secondary school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
2

Master's Programs: 

a
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field from a recognized university.   
3

Tuition Fees: 

a
No tuition fees since Winter 2012/13. 
4

Language proficiency:

a
German-taught programs: German proficiency B2 or higher.
b
English-taught programs:  TOEFL (90+) or IELTS (6.5+, no band below 5.5).
 


University Comparison Table 


Here is a brief overview to assess which university works best for you:

 

University Bachelor's Requirements Master's Requirements Language Proficiency Tuition Fees  
TUM Secondary diploma; Studienkellog Relevant degree; GRE (some) IELTS (6.5+), TestDaF, DSH €2,000–€6,000/semester
LMU Abitur or equivalent; APS certificate Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), TestDaF, DSH Tuition-free; €100–€150 fees
Heidelberg Abitur or equivalent; Uni-Assist Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), TestDaF (4+) €1,500/semester (non-EU)
Freie Universität Abitur or equivalent Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), TestDaF (4+) Tuition-free; €300–€400 fees
RWTH Aachen Abitur or equivalent Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), TestDaF (4+) Tuition-free; €300 fees
KIT Abitur or equivalent; Studienkolleg Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), DSH-2      €1,500/semester
Humboldt-Universität Abitur or equivalent Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), TestDaF (4x4) Tuition-free; €300 fees
TU Berlin Abitur or equivalent Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), B2 German Tuition-free; €300 fees
Universität Hamburg Abitur or equivalent Relevant degree IELTS (6.5+), B2 German Tuition-free; €300 fees
 

 

Why Study in Germany?


The following are the perks of studying in Germany:
 
1

Renowned Academic Excellence

German universities are internationally recognized for their high academic standards, advanced research, and innovations in fields such as engineering, business, and sciences. 

2

Practical Learning Opportunities

The emphasis on the pith of practical education and internships will be conducive for students to put to use the theoretical learnings in relevant fields.  

3

Specialized programs

Germany offers various highly specialized programs that are designed per industrial needs, targeted for students to gain expertise in niche areas of the student's choice.

4

Cost-Efficiency

Oftentimes, public universities either have no tuition fees or come at a minimal cost, making Germany an alluring option. 

5

Global Industry Connections

Germany is an abode for many multinational companies like Siemens, BMW, Bosch, and startups, providing multitudes of networking and employment opportunities upon graduation. 

6

English-taught Programs

Many programs, especially at the Master's level, are taught in English, too, which makes it accessible to non-German-speaking students while encouraging them to learn a new language.

7

Strategic Location

With an ideal location at the heart of Europe, students in Germany get easy access to international business markets and the opportunity to travel to other European markets. 

8

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Since the spring intake is less prevalent, there may be less competition for course placements, funding, and accommodation.

 

Conclusion
 

Germany offers an exceptional opportunity for higher education, and its top public universities provide top-notch education across varied fields. International students, however, must ensure they meet the specific entry requirements for their desired program and have the necessary language proficiency in either English or German. You can connect with our expert counselors to receive more clarity on the whole German application process.  
 

 

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